Straddling the borders of North Carolina and Tennessee, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the closest national park to Wilkesboro. The visitor center is in Cherokee, NC, and it features exhibits that tell the story of life in the area from Native American and early European settlement perspectives. At The Mountain Farm Museum, next to the visitor center, you can attend the park's demonstrations of farm life on a seasonal schedule.
Congaree National Park is the only national park wholly within North Carolina borders. Several of the park's trees are on the National Register of Champion Trees for being among the tallest of their species. Guided programs are led on Saturdays to help you explore 25 miles of trails and the 2.4-mile boardwalk that allows access to Weston Lake.
New River Gorge National Park opens the famed New River Gorge Bridge to pedestrians and various activities for a single day each year in October. "Bridge Day" draws vendors, BASE jumpers, repellers, musicians, and more. The day is West Virginia's most famous festival and the largest extreme sports event in the world. Beyond Bridge Day, the park partnered with others to develop a self-guided smartphone auto tour. The tour tells the stories of coal miners and railroad workers that helped shape the region.
A massive granite dome is the most notable feature of Stone Mountain State Park. People visit the park to enjoy the views of the dome while picnicking on the park grounds. The park also features an active events calendar. Sessional programs such as STMO Spooktober Series: All the Night Creatures are a favorite of visitors.
RVers use New River State Park as a launching point to enjoy the river. Easy navigation and fantastic scenery make the New River a good choice for novice paddlers. The park also has a swimming and beach area for those who want to relax. For young explorers, hands-on exhibits about plants and animals are available at the visitors center.
Lake Norman State Park has a popular mountain biking network with over 30 miles of single-track trail. Or you can enjoy the lake at the park's beach and bathhouse complex. Alternatively, anglers can use the boat ramp or cast their line from various spots along the park trails.
The Biltmore Estate is a National Historic Landmark and known as America's largest home. Beyond the self-guided tour, which could be a day trip on its own, the experience is much more than seeing a big house. You can view Legends of Art and Innovation, a multiyear exhibit series that displays art by Van Gogh, Monet, and Da Vinci. Additionally, activities for kids, outdoor experiences for all, and seasonal events make the estate a must-see stop for travelers.
Sliding Rock Recreation Area, an Ashville-area attraction, is a quick and easy stop for 60 feet of slippery fun. Sliders appreciate the metal railing along the side when they realize they need to make it back to the top. Riverside picnic tables along US 276 are available nearby.
To the southwest of Wilkesboro, Mount Mitchell's summit is the highest point in North Carolina. You can picnic at one of the tables provided by the park or enjoy the views from the observation deck. Additionally, a museum near the summit offers education about the history of the mountain.
RVshare's top picks for campgrounds in the area include Riverside Golf and RV Park, the perfect spot for golf lovers. The campground has a mini-golf course, golf store, and driving range. Alternatively, Lake Hickory RV Resort made the top picks because it is perfect for folks attracted to water. The campground maintains a beach, boardwalk, and boat launch for campers who want to enjoy the lake.
For RVers seeking a nature experience, Mountain Stream RV Park is in the middle of Pisgah National Forest. In a quiet forested area, the campground is an ideal selection for families with kids. Lastly, RVshare chose Statesville/ I-77 KOA for people traveling to points south. The campground is right off the interstate and has a store catering to travelers on the go.
How do I correctly load and secure my recreational equipment in the toy hauler rental, such as ATVs or dirt bikes, and are there any weight or size limitations I need to be aware of?
It is important to properly load and secure your recreational equipment in the toy hauler rental to ensure safety during travel. Most toy haulers come equipped with tie-downs and rails specifically designed for securing equipment. It is important to follow the manufacturer's guidelines for weight capacity and loading instructions. You should also check with the owner of the RVshare rental for any specific instructions or recommendations.
What kind of maintenance or upkeep do I need on the toy hauler rental's garage area, and what kind of tools or equipment do I need for this?
Proper maintenance of the toy hauler is handled by the RV owner. As the renter you are responsible for being cautious and following instructions to avoid damages, as well as keeping the trailer clean and in the condition you found it.
Are there any special insurance considerations or requirements when renting a toy hauler, particularly regarding the transport of recreational equipment?
RVshare rentals always come with insurance, with three options to choose from to best suit your needs.
How do I properly level and stabilize a toy hauler rental at my campsite or RV park, and what equipment or tools do I need?
Discuss your specific campsite with the RV owner to determine if leveling and stabilization of the toy hauler rental is needed for optimal comfort and safety.
Can I bring fuel and oil for my recreational equipment, or should I purchase these items after reaching my destination?
It is generally recommended to purchase fuel and oil for your recreational equipment after reaching your destination. Many RV parks and campgrounds have restrictions on fuel storage for safety reasons.
What kind of towing vehicle do I need to rent a toy hauler, and are there any special licensing or certification requirements for operating this vehicle in Wilkesboro, NC?
The type of towing vehicle needed for a toy hauler rental will depend on the weight and towing capacity of the toy hauler itself. It is important to check with the owner of the RVshare rental for any specific requirements or recommendations. Typically a standard driver’s license is required to tow a toy hauler.
Can I use the garage area of a toy hauler rental to store items other than recreational equipment, and what weight limitations exist for these items?
The garage area of a toy hauler rental can typically be used to store items other than recreational equipment, such as bicycles or camping gear. However, it is important to follow any weight capacity guidelines provided by the manufacturer or rental owner to ensure safe operation.
Are any particular features or amenities available in toy hauler rentals that may not be found in other RVs in Wilkesboro, NC?
Toy hauler rentals often come equipped with unique features and amenities not found in other types of RVs. These can include a garage area for storing and transporting recreational equipment, folding beds or bunks, and outdoor living spaces. Checking with the rental owner for specific features and amenities can help you choose the best option for your travel needs.